ARRY DEAN ROSS, 71, passed from this life into eternity surrounded by the love of his family. In his final moments, he was surrounded by family as they prayed and sang hymns at his bedside, filling the room with the faith, peace, and hope that had guided his life. A memorial service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the Hawley Church of Christ, directed by Adams-Graham Funeral Home.

Larry was born on January 21, 1955, in Sweetwater, Texas, to Elbon “Dale” Ross and Bobbie Ross. He was the second of six children, though his siblings often joked that he was actually born first because he never missed an opportunity to take charge.

Larry was known for his quick wit, endless jokes, and ability to make people laugh. He loved playing games, spending time with family, and making memories with those he loved. Whether gathered around a table or visiting with friends and family, Larry had a way of bringing joy and laughter wherever he went.

Above all else, Larry was a devoted Christian. His faith was the foundation of his life and guided everything he did. He loved the Lord deeply and rarely missed a church service unless he was on call. He loved sharing his faith and wanted everyone he met to know the hope and salvation found in Christ.

As a young man, Larry developed a love for mechanics while attending auto mechanics classes in high school, a skill that served him throughout his life. After graduation, he joined the United States Navy, hoping to see the world. Though he dreamed of sailing aboard ships, he instead worked on aircraft and often joked that he joined the Navy to see the world but never really left Texas. He proudly served his country for four years.

Larry was also a talented self taught guitar player. Though he never had formal lessons, he became exceptionally skilled and found great joy in sharing his music with others. Some of his daughters’ most cherished memories are falling asleep each night to the sound of their daddy playing guitar. At family gatherings, it was not unusual for Larry to pull out his guitar and spend hours playing alongside family and friends. His music became part of the soundtrack of countless memories and brought people together wherever he went.

Larry later married and became the proud father of three daughters, a role that would become one of the greatest joys of his life. Following the end of that marriage, he spent many years raising his girls as a single father. He poured his heart into being present for them, never missing school trips, activities, or opportunities to spend time together. He gave his daughters everything he had and created a home filled with love, laughter, stability, and faith. His girls wanted for nothing and never doubted how deeply they were loved.

In 1983, Larry joined the Abilene Fire Department, beginning a career he loved and took immense pride in. He faithfully served the citizens of Abilene for 27 years before retiring in 2010. Being a firefighter was more than a profession to Larry. It was an opportunity to help others, and he was proud of the work he did and the lives he touched throughout his career.

Larry later married again and welcomed two boys into his family, whom he loved dearly throughout his life. Though that marriage eventually ended, his love for his family remained steadfast.

Larry was a longtime resident of Hawley, Texas, where he spent much of his life raising his family, building lifelong friendships, and becoming a familiar face in the community he loved.

Nothing brought Larry more joy than spending time with his family. He loved visiting relatives, attending family gatherings, and cheering on his children and grandchildren at their games, performances, and activities, rarely missing an opportunity to be there. He treasured every chance to support those he loved. Being a father and grandfather was among the greatest blessings of his life.

Larry was preceded in death by his father, Elbon “Dale” Ross; his brother, Charlie “Chuck” Ross; his infant son, Baby Boy Ross; and his son, Zakarie Ross.

He is survived by his mother, Bobbie Ross; his daughters, Crystal James and husband Matthew James, and their children Elizabeth, Abigail, and Jeremiah; Ashley Blevins and husband J.J. Blevins, and their son Daniel; and Britney Sutton and husband Kristopher Sutton, and their children Ava, Leighla, Jayden, Jack, Mia, Neva, Cora, and Iva; his son, Nathan Ross, and grandchildren Luna and Axel; the children of his late son, Zakarie Ross, and grandchildren Nathan, Graison, and Zayyliah; one great grandchild on the way; his brothers and sisters; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Larry’s legacy is one of faith, service, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family. He lived a life dedicated to God, to helping others, and to loving those entrusted to his care. While he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that the hymns sung at his bedside became the songs that accompanied him home to the Lord he loved so dearly.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23